1. infection:

a) superficial wound infection:0.9–5% 61 (risk is increased with age, long term steroids, obesity, ? DM): most are caused by S. aureus

Laminectomy wound infection

see Laminectomy wound infection.

b) deep wound infection: <1%

2. increased motor deficit: 1–8% (some transient)

3. unintended “incidental” durotomy (the term “unintended durotomy” has been recommended in preference to “dural tear,”): incidence is 0.3–13% (risk increases to ≈ 18% in redo operations) 1).

a) CSF fistula (external CSF leak): the risk of a CSF fistula requiring operative repair is≈10 per 10 2).

b) Pseudomeningocele: 0.7–2% 3) (may appear similar radiographically to spinal epidural abscess (SEA), but post-op SEA often enhances, is more irregular, and is associated with muscle edema)

4. Recurrent lumbar disc herniation (same level either side): 4% (with 10-year follow-up)

5. Postoperative urinary retention (POUR): usually temporary, but may delay hospital discharge.

1) , 3)
Goodkin R, Laska LL. Unintended 'Incidental' Durotomy During Surgery of the Lumbar Spine: Medicolegal Implications. Surg Neurol. 1995; 43:4-14
2)
Ramirez LF, Thisted R. Complications and Demographic Characteristics of Patients Undergoing Lumbar Discectomy in Community Hospitals. Neurosurgery. 1989; 25:226–231